Sunday, January 30, 2005
I Get the Dog.
And don't you forget it.
Tonight's photo is one that was taken at our annual Halloween party. The folks in this picture (left to right) are Damien (aka Andrew Jackson... don't ask), myself (Elastijustice - superhera extraordinaire), Josh (aka The Man With No Name) and Tony (aka Master Shake... although the costume got lost somewhere by this point.)
As you can see in the picture, we played plenty of beer pong that night. And you know what? That was the only night I ever went completely undefeated in a night at beer pong. Not a single soul beat me that night. I took it as a sign that the Steelers would win the next day's game, which they did. That, oddly enough, was the New England game. Maybe I should have played beer pong last saturday night too...
I think next entry will be devoted to my birthday dinner...
... which I received in the mail...
... and no, it wasn't a gift card.
I'm pretty firsty. I think I'm gonna go get a glass o' pop.
Later on homies.
Group... hug?
Tonight's photo is one that was taken at our annual Halloween party. The folks in this picture (left to right) are Damien (aka Andrew Jackson... don't ask), myself (Elastijustice - superhera extraordinaire), Josh (aka The Man With No Name) and Tony (aka Master Shake... although the costume got lost somewhere by this point.)
As you can see in the picture, we played plenty of beer pong that night. And you know what? That was the only night I ever went completely undefeated in a night at beer pong. Not a single soul beat me that night. I took it as a sign that the Steelers would win the next day's game, which they did. That, oddly enough, was the New England game. Maybe I should have played beer pong last saturday night too...
I think next entry will be devoted to my birthday dinner...
... which I received in the mail...
... and no, it wasn't a gift card.
I'm pretty firsty. I think I'm gonna go get a glass o' pop.
Later on homies.
Group... hug?
Saturday, January 29, 2005
I Wish I Could Say
...that I never looked back.
Hey kiddos!
I am having so freaking much fun with this whole publishing photos thing. So... as I have mentioned, I think I'm going to put a new photo in every entry as long as I have cool photos to place here.
This photo is one we took the day we got our tickets for our show. This is me holding the tickets proudly. You can't really read the tix, but believe me when I say that the fourth band listed is, in fact, "The Great Fall." We were so proud that day...
Jason and I wrote a new song today. (Words and some music by Claire Whaley, some music by Jason Van Jura.) I don't think it has a title yet, but it's a great song. Oooh... I think I just thought of a title for it... but if I shared it here, in this forum, many of the people who read this would know what the song would then be about, whereas normal people wouldn't have a clue. And I'd like for people to be able to relate the song in any way to their lives, ya know? The song is something oddly specific for me, but it can be applied to lots of stuff. I don't know.
I was supposed to go out tonight with Sarah, but that didn't happen. The roads are shitty, and Kermie isn't the best vehicle for snowy times. Snowy times? That sounds like something that has been poorly translated from Japanese into English.
Anyway, nothing else important to report. I'd just like to say that PUTTING PHOTOS IN MY BLOG IS WAY FUN!
That is all.
Got tickets?
Hey kiddos!
I am having so freaking much fun with this whole publishing photos thing. So... as I have mentioned, I think I'm going to put a new photo in every entry as long as I have cool photos to place here.
This photo is one we took the day we got our tickets for our show. This is me holding the tickets proudly. You can't really read the tix, but believe me when I say that the fourth band listed is, in fact, "The Great Fall." We were so proud that day...
Jason and I wrote a new song today. (Words and some music by Claire Whaley, some music by Jason Van Jura.) I don't think it has a title yet, but it's a great song. Oooh... I think I just thought of a title for it... but if I shared it here, in this forum, many of the people who read this would know what the song would then be about, whereas normal people wouldn't have a clue. And I'd like for people to be able to relate the song in any way to their lives, ya know? The song is something oddly specific for me, but it can be applied to lots of stuff. I don't know.
I was supposed to go out tonight with Sarah, but that didn't happen. The roads are shitty, and Kermie isn't the best vehicle for snowy times. Snowy times? That sounds like something that has been poorly translated from Japanese into English.
Anyway, nothing else important to report. I'd just like to say that PUTTING PHOTOS IN MY BLOG IS WAY FUN!
That is all.
Got tickets?
Pictures Rule!
And so do you
Woo! I figured out how to put pictures on here. This is a picture of my family as we were leaving for the Buffalo game. (Bad timing to show this picture, I know, but what can ya do.)
Pretty awesome stuff, huh? I think I'm going to start sharing a photo in every entry... and perhaps explaining it some. This could be fun.
Woo! I figured out how to put pictures on here. This is a picture of my family as we were leaving for the Buffalo game. (Bad timing to show this picture, I know, but what can ya do.)
Pretty awesome stuff, huh? I think I'm going to start sharing a photo in every entry... and perhaps explaining it some. This could be fun.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Bass Fishing...
And I caught one!
The Great Fall now has a bass player! She's really hot too. And a great writer.
I'm pretty psyched. We bought this bass... on a whim. So... now I get to learn to play it. Shouldn't be too hard, right? Right. Riiiiight.
Anyway, not much else is going on. I've been busy doing things lately, so I haven't had much of a chance to write. I basically just wanted to write this evening to let any that read this (few as they may be) know that I haven't forgotten my precious blog. I still hold it in high regard, I have just been tired and lazy as of late.
2.
Shrine
Bold
Tomato
Barren
Tomorrow
Cable
Run
Bereft
Center
Sorry... I figured since I had nothing to say, I would just type any words that came to mind (and numbers)
That is all.
The Great Fall now has a bass player! She's really hot too. And a great writer.
I'm pretty psyched. We bought this bass... on a whim. So... now I get to learn to play it. Shouldn't be too hard, right? Right. Riiiiight.
Anyway, not much else is going on. I've been busy doing things lately, so I haven't had much of a chance to write. I basically just wanted to write this evening to let any that read this (few as they may be) know that I haven't forgotten my precious blog. I still hold it in high regard, I have just been tired and lazy as of late.
2.
Shrine
Bold
Tomato
Barren
Tomorrow
Cable
Run
Bereft
Center
Sorry... I figured since I had nothing to say, I would just type any words that came to mind (and numbers)
That is all.
Friday, January 21, 2005
ALRIGHT, THAT'S ENOUGH.
You asked for it.
Listen! If you have a favorite NFL team that doesn't happen to be the Steelers, that's great! That's awesome! Go to the games! Wear the colors! Buy the foam fingers! Marry the offensive coordinator! Dress from head to toe in their gear, or, better yet - don't dress in the gear at all! Paint yourself instead! Tell the world that your team is the best! Spend lots of money on bobbleheads and jerseys and kiss the pictures of the QB you have by your bed every night! Take pride in your city, by all means! Love your team! Even if you're a San Francisco fan, you are entitled to do ALL THESE THINGS! In fact, I encourage you to do so! I think that's great! And you know what? If the Steelers were 8-8 or 4-12 or anything, I would do the same!
HOWEVER
It is really really NOT COOL to say "The Steelers (or ANY team for that matter) suck." What is with that! Why is it that instead of showing support for one's team, everybody's showing DISDAIN for everyone else's team? That to me is unsportsmanlike, and generally shitty. I take pride in the fact that I have (I am pretty sure rather successfully) tried to avoid trashing all the teams in the NFL. Instead, I show my support for MY favorite team, and leave it at that.
And you know what? At BOTH the away games I've attended this season, I saw people selling "Fuck Ben" t-shirts. What IS that? (Although, if I were ben, I'd purchase one and wear it around, and hope to get lucky haha) But anyway, if you wanna show team spirit, wear a t-shirt that promotes YOUR quarterback. Don't you think it's a little immature to make one t-shirt SPECIFICALLY to trash ONE TEAM in the NFL? (And one that BEAT YOUR TEAM TWICE to boot!) Won't you feel silly wearing that on any subsequent day?
Okay. To be fair, Pittsburgh does have "Cleveland sucks" t-shirts. And... I have to admit... I think they're amusing. BUT! I would much rather wear my Steelers sweatshirt than a "Cleveland sucks" t-shirt any day. Whether we like it or not, sometimes Cleveland wins! And then what! I'd feel like an idiot wearing that t-shirt. And I'd probably get hit with things leaving the stadium.
Also, if you think about it, if you're a fan of Team A, and this weekend your team is playing Team B, wouldn't you want to make Team B sound good? This way, if Team A wins, you can say, "How awesome is my team! Team A is so great, that they can even beat the toughest opponent! - Team B!" On the same token, even if Team A loses, you can still say, "Well, Team A is so great that it almost took down Team B." Or if the game wasn't close at all you could say, "Well, Team A lost, but they're still awesome. After all, it's really really hard to beat Team B."
Think about it. If you go around saying that Team B sucks, and you win, then it's like, whoopity-do, you beat Team B... but my grandmother and cat could beat Team B, so it's no real accomplishment. And what's worse, is that if Team B wins, then your team looks like a bunch of nimrods! In fact, they look worse than Team Cat and Grandmother!
So please! Acknowledge the talent of the teams in the NFL. It's a much classier approach, in my humble opinion. You certainly won't hear me saying that the Patriots suck. You will however be able to count on hearing me say that I love my Steelers and I hope the best for them. And you bet your sweet ass I'll be in full black and gold regalia with my terrible towel by my side this Sunday at 6:30.
It's all about pride. When did it become about something else? I wouldn't go into a job interview and tell the interviewer that all the other applicants suck. I would say that I rule... and that should be enough. (Well, that and some business about qualifications and experience, but you get the idea.)
Anyway, Go Steelers.
Listen! If you have a favorite NFL team that doesn't happen to be the Steelers, that's great! That's awesome! Go to the games! Wear the colors! Buy the foam fingers! Marry the offensive coordinator! Dress from head to toe in their gear, or, better yet - don't dress in the gear at all! Paint yourself instead! Tell the world that your team is the best! Spend lots of money on bobbleheads and jerseys and kiss the pictures of the QB you have by your bed every night! Take pride in your city, by all means! Love your team! Even if you're a San Francisco fan, you are entitled to do ALL THESE THINGS! In fact, I encourage you to do so! I think that's great! And you know what? If the Steelers were 8-8 or 4-12 or anything, I would do the same!
HOWEVER
It is really really NOT COOL to say "The Steelers (or ANY team for that matter) suck." What is with that! Why is it that instead of showing support for one's team, everybody's showing DISDAIN for everyone else's team? That to me is unsportsmanlike, and generally shitty. I take pride in the fact that I have (I am pretty sure rather successfully) tried to avoid trashing all the teams in the NFL. Instead, I show my support for MY favorite team, and leave it at that.
And you know what? At BOTH the away games I've attended this season, I saw people selling "Fuck Ben" t-shirts. What IS that? (Although, if I were ben, I'd purchase one and wear it around, and hope to get lucky haha) But anyway, if you wanna show team spirit, wear a t-shirt that promotes YOUR quarterback. Don't you think it's a little immature to make one t-shirt SPECIFICALLY to trash ONE TEAM in the NFL? (And one that BEAT YOUR TEAM TWICE to boot!) Won't you feel silly wearing that on any subsequent day?
Okay. To be fair, Pittsburgh does have "Cleveland sucks" t-shirts. And... I have to admit... I think they're amusing. BUT! I would much rather wear my Steelers sweatshirt than a "Cleveland sucks" t-shirt any day. Whether we like it or not, sometimes Cleveland wins! And then what! I'd feel like an idiot wearing that t-shirt. And I'd probably get hit with things leaving the stadium.
Also, if you think about it, if you're a fan of Team A, and this weekend your team is playing Team B, wouldn't you want to make Team B sound good? This way, if Team A wins, you can say, "How awesome is my team! Team A is so great, that they can even beat the toughest opponent! - Team B!" On the same token, even if Team A loses, you can still say, "Well, Team A is so great that it almost took down Team B." Or if the game wasn't close at all you could say, "Well, Team A lost, but they're still awesome. After all, it's really really hard to beat Team B."
Think about it. If you go around saying that Team B sucks, and you win, then it's like, whoopity-do, you beat Team B... but my grandmother and cat could beat Team B, so it's no real accomplishment. And what's worse, is that if Team B wins, then your team looks like a bunch of nimrods! In fact, they look worse than Team Cat and Grandmother!
So please! Acknowledge the talent of the teams in the NFL. It's a much classier approach, in my humble opinion. You certainly won't hear me saying that the Patriots suck. You will however be able to count on hearing me say that I love my Steelers and I hope the best for them. And you bet your sweet ass I'll be in full black and gold regalia with my terrible towel by my side this Sunday at 6:30.
It's all about pride. When did it become about something else? I wouldn't go into a job interview and tell the interviewer that all the other applicants suck. I would say that I rule... and that should be enough. (Well, that and some business about qualifications and experience, but you get the idea.)
Anyway, Go Steelers.
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
No Matter Where You Go...
There you are.
It's one of those days in which I feel like writing, but have absolutely nothing worthwhile to say. I guess this will be one of those random stream of consciousness ramblings.
I'm getting a little irked and a little ancy. I was told that The Great Fall's website would be in working order last Sunday. Clearly that didn't happen. I inquired about it, and was told that it would be in working order today. Well, I just checked, and clearly, that was not the case. I'm a little upset. I want our website to work! Boo! Oh well. The band has practice tomorrow, so I'll ask again and whoop some ass if I don't get some answers.
I've sunk to a new low. I'm watching American Idol. And you know what? (This is where everyone thinks I'm going to say "I kinda like it" or "It's not that bad" or "I'm slowly becoming addicted.") It is worse than I always suspected. Not that the singing is bad, not that I hate Simon, or I hate reality TV, I'm rather indifferent to all of that. I just don't see the fascination, and I don't see how this can hold anyone's attention... I don't get the appeal... I just don't. It's just not enjoyable to me. Now, I know your next thought. "Well, Claire, why don't you change the channel?" The answer to that is that I tend to lose track of time, and I want to make sure I catch the news.
I watched "Fraggle Rock" today. That was much more entertaining than American Idol. The singing was better too. Plus those Gorgs (sp?) were damn sexy.
I dug into the pits of my computer today and viewed my trove of photos. That was a lot of fun. I think that although digital cameras are expensive, and I hesitated to buy one because of that, and I even regretted it at first (this was before I put it together and started playing), they are quite the worthwhile purchase. I love my digital camera. It takes pretty pictures.
Okay, now we all know that "generic juice is for sucks," but I definitely purchased Minute Maid brand orange juice... and it still tastes shitty. What is going on?!? Is there some kind of funky thing going on in Florida that is making the orange groves all messed up? Are the juice-makers getting lazy? Something is definitely off. Orange juice just doesn't taste like it used to. I guess it's possible my tastes have changed, but usually when that happens I decide that I like/don't like a food that I felt differently about previously. It's not a matter of it tasting different, it's a matter of a new liking of that taste on my part as a bearer of taste buds. Usually foods don't taste different, I just decide that I like the taste of something more or less than I used to... but it still tastes the same to me. Does any of this make sense? And a better question: Does anyone really give a shit?
Somebody oughta make a movie called "The Void." Maybe there already is a movie called The Void. In fact, I bet there is. Forget I said anything.
Hah! After all that, the news didn't come on after American Idol. It's some queer tv show. Bummer.
I have to broaden my musical horizons. I should admit to the world that I enjoy listening to Sarah McLachlan. Haha... she's so easy to rip on, but I seriously like her music. She's all deep and earthy and not-quite-indie-anymore... I don't know. She's funny... but anyone who sweetly and smoothly croons, "You're so beautiful... a beautiful fucked up man" sure wins big with me.
Actually, it may sound funny... but as I was watching Fraggle Rock today, the fraggles sang this song... I don't remember the words but it had something to do with constantly being "here." It reminded me of the thought-provoking quote from Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome: "Remember, no matter where you go, there you are." The song was all about how no matter where you go, you can always say "I'm here." and you will never be wrong. Listening to this Jim Henson-inspired tune, I thought that it would be a great song to do... with the band. I know it sounds crazy, but if you throw in some electric guitar and some harmonies (that aren't sung by fraggles) it could be a really cool song... and kinda funny... and... I don't know. Unfortunately, I bet that one could run into serious copyright troubles covering a fraggle song. Hmm... I think it might be worth looking into though. We shall see.
I was supposed to do Joey and Maria's Italian Wedding on Saturday (once again portraying the ever-popular pregnant bridesmaid [Louisa]), but the show didn't sell enough tickets, so that was cancelled. I'm kinda glad, actually. I wanted to party this weekend in celebration of my twenty-third year of existance. Michelle, the director, said she suspects that the low ticket sales may have something to do with a certain black and gold clad team that's been playing some okay football 'round these parts. I reckon she may be correct.
That may be all I have to say today. Although, I wouldn't be surprised if I come back later tonight and yammer on some more.
Hahahaha.... I said "yammer."
It's one of those days in which I feel like writing, but have absolutely nothing worthwhile to say. I guess this will be one of those random stream of consciousness ramblings.
I'm getting a little irked and a little ancy. I was told that The Great Fall's website would be in working order last Sunday. Clearly that didn't happen. I inquired about it, and was told that it would be in working order today. Well, I just checked, and clearly, that was not the case. I'm a little upset. I want our website to work! Boo! Oh well. The band has practice tomorrow, so I'll ask again and whoop some ass if I don't get some answers.
I've sunk to a new low. I'm watching American Idol. And you know what? (This is where everyone thinks I'm going to say "I kinda like it" or "It's not that bad" or "I'm slowly becoming addicted.") It is worse than I always suspected. Not that the singing is bad, not that I hate Simon, or I hate reality TV, I'm rather indifferent to all of that. I just don't see the fascination, and I don't see how this can hold anyone's attention... I don't get the appeal... I just don't. It's just not enjoyable to me. Now, I know your next thought. "Well, Claire, why don't you change the channel?" The answer to that is that I tend to lose track of time, and I want to make sure I catch the news.
I watched "Fraggle Rock" today. That was much more entertaining than American Idol. The singing was better too. Plus those Gorgs (sp?) were damn sexy.
I dug into the pits of my computer today and viewed my trove of photos. That was a lot of fun. I think that although digital cameras are expensive, and I hesitated to buy one because of that, and I even regretted it at first (this was before I put it together and started playing), they are quite the worthwhile purchase. I love my digital camera. It takes pretty pictures.
Okay, now we all know that "generic juice is for sucks," but I definitely purchased Minute Maid brand orange juice... and it still tastes shitty. What is going on?!? Is there some kind of funky thing going on in Florida that is making the orange groves all messed up? Are the juice-makers getting lazy? Something is definitely off. Orange juice just doesn't taste like it used to. I guess it's possible my tastes have changed, but usually when that happens I decide that I like/don't like a food that I felt differently about previously. It's not a matter of it tasting different, it's a matter of a new liking of that taste on my part as a bearer of taste buds. Usually foods don't taste different, I just decide that I like the taste of something more or less than I used to... but it still tastes the same to me. Does any of this make sense? And a better question: Does anyone really give a shit?
Somebody oughta make a movie called "The Void." Maybe there already is a movie called The Void. In fact, I bet there is. Forget I said anything.
Hah! After all that, the news didn't come on after American Idol. It's some queer tv show. Bummer.
I have to broaden my musical horizons. I should admit to the world that I enjoy listening to Sarah McLachlan. Haha... she's so easy to rip on, but I seriously like her music. She's all deep and earthy and not-quite-indie-anymore... I don't know. She's funny... but anyone who sweetly and smoothly croons, "You're so beautiful... a beautiful fucked up man" sure wins big with me.
Actually, it may sound funny... but as I was watching Fraggle Rock today, the fraggles sang this song... I don't remember the words but it had something to do with constantly being "here." It reminded me of the thought-provoking quote from Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome: "Remember, no matter where you go, there you are." The song was all about how no matter where you go, you can always say "I'm here." and you will never be wrong. Listening to this Jim Henson-inspired tune, I thought that it would be a great song to do... with the band. I know it sounds crazy, but if you throw in some electric guitar and some harmonies (that aren't sung by fraggles) it could be a really cool song... and kinda funny... and... I don't know. Unfortunately, I bet that one could run into serious copyright troubles covering a fraggle song. Hmm... I think it might be worth looking into though. We shall see.
I was supposed to do Joey and Maria's Italian Wedding on Saturday (once again portraying the ever-popular pregnant bridesmaid [Louisa]), but the show didn't sell enough tickets, so that was cancelled. I'm kinda glad, actually. I wanted to party this weekend in celebration of my twenty-third year of existance. Michelle, the director, said she suspects that the low ticket sales may have something to do with a certain black and gold clad team that's been playing some okay football 'round these parts. I reckon she may be correct.
That may be all I have to say today. Although, I wouldn't be surprised if I come back later tonight and yammer on some more.
Hahahaha.... I said "yammer."
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
What's My Age Again?
Nobody likes you when you're 23
Happy birthday to meee! In all honesty, I really thought today would suck, what with all the goings on that have been clouding everyone's heads. Fortunately, I was wrong, and my birthday has actually quite enjoyable!
Work was lacking, but when I got home I found flowers and a balloon and a card from Josh, and my mother and grandmother took me out to dinner at the Church Brew Works (which is a really weird yet really cool place by the way) and we all had a grand time. I also got a pleasant e-mail from Rewmie and 2 pleasant voice mails from D and Rich, and a pleasant IM from Benvenurinarytractinfection.
All in all, a good day!
This will be a short entry because I am way tired and heading to bed soon, but I just wanted to share my birthday joys. Woo birthdays. I sure hope my birthday wish comes true....
Happy birthday to meee! In all honesty, I really thought today would suck, what with all the goings on that have been clouding everyone's heads. Fortunately, I was wrong, and my birthday has actually quite enjoyable!
Work was lacking, but when I got home I found flowers and a balloon and a card from Josh, and my mother and grandmother took me out to dinner at the Church Brew Works (which is a really weird yet really cool place by the way) and we all had a grand time. I also got a pleasant e-mail from Rewmie and 2 pleasant voice mails from D and Rich, and a pleasant IM from Benvenurinarytractinfection.
All in all, a good day!
This will be a short entry because I am way tired and heading to bed soon, but I just wanted to share my birthday joys. Woo birthdays. I sure hope my birthday wish comes true....
Sunday, January 16, 2005
Scream Laughs and Sighs
(Opening this entry with words that are so appropriate in so many ways that it just needs to go here.)
Put miles on shoe soles
She thought of breasts
Partly equal quest
Past tragedy
Ultimately okay
Did you learn it?
And I think so
I thought
He earned it
Rewarded
Post disregard
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
Sneak up on me
But I'll bust you regardless
We'll laugh
She wants tomorrow
He's okay for now
Write another one down
He'll stop wanting more
But will he?
Smack us around!
It's fun.
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
- "Roadside Rave" by The Great Fall
I'm breathing two huge sighs of relief today. Chronologically, the first sigh of relief is in response to our amazing show on Thursday. From the moment we stepped on stage and kicked off the show with Roadside Rave, (which, incidentally is about the wave of relief that hits after being remarkably stressed out), til the last note of Exit Signs, The Great Fall rocked out with confidence and talent that felt so good, that I can't even describe it. Although the audience was very small, and mostly eighties metal and/or Limp Bizkitesque rap/rock music fans, they seemed receptive to our sound, and enjoyed the show despite the change in style.
It was so great to play in a venue like Mr. Smalls theater. It was almost the same feeling I got when I first stepped out onto the stage of the PAC and envisioned myself in front of an audience of snooty classical music snobs, playing my heart out, and blowing everyone away with my oboe talent.
When I stepped out onto the stage at Mr. Smalls, I got a similar feeling, except that I envisioned myself in front of a younger and more casually dressed crowd. I was bummed that there really wasn't much of a crowd at all, but I think we played remarkably well especially for a first gig, and that's all that matters to me. I'm almost glad that it was a small audience so that we weren't as nervous as we maybe would have been under other circumstances. That puts us in a good confident mindset for whenever we have a bigger show to play.
Now, after that show, I finally feel convinced that we can be a successful live band, and we can really try to accomplish things. It gave me a lot of confidence, and all the punk kids who only listen to hardcore music that told us they were interested in hearing us again just boosted our confidence further. Even the owner of the theater gave us his card and told us that any time we'd like to put a set together we should give him a call. What a great experience. I wanna be a rock star. Sigh.
So... anyway, that was a great relief. I feel so good about it now, and Roadside Rave now has new meaning.
The second big sigh of relief (as most can probably guess) is for none other than the PITTSBURGH STEELERS who, after playing... um... rather poorly actually, never lost hope, even though everyone else did. I was literally on the verge of tears on my couch, clutching my black and gold football that I made in home ec class in 7th grade for dear life, and screaming loudly enough to send my cat running full speed into the kitchen... to show her support by taking a nap.
Seriously... when the Steelers had the ball and there was little time left and we were on our way down the field, and I yelled at the TV, "BEN! DON'T DO ANYTHING STUPID. RUN THE @*$#(# BALL" it was only moments later that Ben did something stupid, tried to pass the ball, and landed himself an interception that SHOULD HAVE COST US THE GAME.
It was only by a miracle or the fact that God is a Steelers fan that their guy missed his field goal... for the second time.
I don't think I have ever literally nearly vomited watching a game before, but I came damn close tonight, and not just once, but on several occasions. When the Jets tried for that second field goal in overtime, I really thought the game was over. OVER. I was alllll depressed already. I can't believe my boys (and by "my boys" I mean "Jeff Reed") pulled that game out. That game was LOST. Twice! We should have lost that game. Twice.
Wow. My heart didn't start beating again until several seconds after Reed kicked that field goal, ending the game. I'm still stunned.
Did we learn it?
And I think so
I thought
We earned it (author's note: well maybe not earned per se)
Rewarded
Post disregard
I just looked over my shoulder to see Bill Cowher on TV talking about the game... and by the looks of his eyes, it seems that he has been crying. Bill Cowher! Crying! Now, don't go spreading nasty rumors because I have no proof that Cowher was crying, but by the looks of his eyes it seems that way. Ya know what? I don't blame him. I nearly cried too, and being the Steelers head coach is not my job.
Wow. Just wow. These past few days have just been great.
Last night I went to Sarah's birthday party. That was a lot of fun. Jason and I had a nice chat on the ride home. Chats with Jason are always very nice. I really feel that he and John and I all left high school in a certain way. We all left high school in our own separate unsettled way. Each one of us was a little bit off when we left, and from what I hear, we've each had a rediculous whirlwind few years... each of us has lived through some pretty crazy stuff, and because we were so unsettled when we left, all the unsettling things that have happened in our lives have actually grounded us more. Now we're all so much more stable, even though we probably shouldn't be.
It's a strange phenomenon that's gone on, but I think we all found each other again at exactly the right time and the right turning point in our lives. Even in high school, I knew that they specifically were each separately very unique people... really great people that would have great lives when they left Montour. We're all stable enough now to appreciate ourselves and each other and all the things everyone's been through that have brought us all to this point. And whatever happens with the band, it's not really about the band. I'm so glad I know these guys again. And in a way, I'm glad I didn't know them for a while, because if I had known them this whole time, we would have missed something along the way. I think we would have all brought each other down, instead of beign able to lift each other up like we do now. Anyway, I'm just glad that this has all happened, and that the situation has ended up as it has, that the lucky moments have lined themselves up in this freakish and unnatural turn of events.
I'm sure the Steelers feel the same way.
I know this entry has sounded like a bunch of melodramatic mumbo jumbo, but even Claire can get into the drama every now and then. Contrary to popular belief, I have the ability to be an emotional person, and it manifests itslef in strange ways at strange times I think. I don't know. I just feel good. I oughta write a song about it.
I think the band should change our name to "The Triforce."
Put miles on shoe soles
She thought of breasts
Partly equal quest
Past tragedy
Ultimately okay
Did you learn it?
And I think so
I thought
He earned it
Rewarded
Post disregard
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
Sneak up on me
But I'll bust you regardless
We'll laugh
She wants tomorrow
He's okay for now
Write another one down
He'll stop wanting more
But will he?
Smack us around!
It's fun.
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
Did you, did you want it?
Cry wolves and birds
Did you, did you earn it?
Scream laughs and sighs
- "Roadside Rave" by The Great Fall
I'm breathing two huge sighs of relief today. Chronologically, the first sigh of relief is in response to our amazing show on Thursday. From the moment we stepped on stage and kicked off the show with Roadside Rave, (which, incidentally is about the wave of relief that hits after being remarkably stressed out), til the last note of Exit Signs, The Great Fall rocked out with confidence and talent that felt so good, that I can't even describe it. Although the audience was very small, and mostly eighties metal and/or Limp Bizkitesque rap/rock music fans, they seemed receptive to our sound, and enjoyed the show despite the change in style.
It was so great to play in a venue like Mr. Smalls theater. It was almost the same feeling I got when I first stepped out onto the stage of the PAC and envisioned myself in front of an audience of snooty classical music snobs, playing my heart out, and blowing everyone away with my oboe talent.
When I stepped out onto the stage at Mr. Smalls, I got a similar feeling, except that I envisioned myself in front of a younger and more casually dressed crowd. I was bummed that there really wasn't much of a crowd at all, but I think we played remarkably well especially for a first gig, and that's all that matters to me. I'm almost glad that it was a small audience so that we weren't as nervous as we maybe would have been under other circumstances. That puts us in a good confident mindset for whenever we have a bigger show to play.
Now, after that show, I finally feel convinced that we can be a successful live band, and we can really try to accomplish things. It gave me a lot of confidence, and all the punk kids who only listen to hardcore music that told us they were interested in hearing us again just boosted our confidence further. Even the owner of the theater gave us his card and told us that any time we'd like to put a set together we should give him a call. What a great experience. I wanna be a rock star. Sigh.
So... anyway, that was a great relief. I feel so good about it now, and Roadside Rave now has new meaning.
The second big sigh of relief (as most can probably guess) is for none other than the PITTSBURGH STEELERS who, after playing... um... rather poorly actually, never lost hope, even though everyone else did. I was literally on the verge of tears on my couch, clutching my black and gold football that I made in home ec class in 7th grade for dear life, and screaming loudly enough to send my cat running full speed into the kitchen... to show her support by taking a nap.
Seriously... when the Steelers had the ball and there was little time left and we were on our way down the field, and I yelled at the TV, "BEN! DON'T DO ANYTHING STUPID. RUN THE @*$#(# BALL" it was only moments later that Ben did something stupid, tried to pass the ball, and landed himself an interception that SHOULD HAVE COST US THE GAME.
It was only by a miracle or the fact that God is a Steelers fan that their guy missed his field goal... for the second time.
I don't think I have ever literally nearly vomited watching a game before, but I came damn close tonight, and not just once, but on several occasions. When the Jets tried for that second field goal in overtime, I really thought the game was over. OVER. I was alllll depressed already. I can't believe my boys (and by "my boys" I mean "Jeff Reed") pulled that game out. That game was LOST. Twice! We should have lost that game. Twice.
Wow. My heart didn't start beating again until several seconds after Reed kicked that field goal, ending the game. I'm still stunned.
Did we learn it?
And I think so
I thought
We earned it (author's note: well maybe not earned per se)
Rewarded
Post disregard
I just looked over my shoulder to see Bill Cowher on TV talking about the game... and by the looks of his eyes, it seems that he has been crying. Bill Cowher! Crying! Now, don't go spreading nasty rumors because I have no proof that Cowher was crying, but by the looks of his eyes it seems that way. Ya know what? I don't blame him. I nearly cried too, and being the Steelers head coach is not my job.
Wow. Just wow. These past few days have just been great.
Last night I went to Sarah's birthday party. That was a lot of fun. Jason and I had a nice chat on the ride home. Chats with Jason are always very nice. I really feel that he and John and I all left high school in a certain way. We all left high school in our own separate unsettled way. Each one of us was a little bit off when we left, and from what I hear, we've each had a rediculous whirlwind few years... each of us has lived through some pretty crazy stuff, and because we were so unsettled when we left, all the unsettling things that have happened in our lives have actually grounded us more. Now we're all so much more stable, even though we probably shouldn't be.
It's a strange phenomenon that's gone on, but I think we all found each other again at exactly the right time and the right turning point in our lives. Even in high school, I knew that they specifically were each separately very unique people... really great people that would have great lives when they left Montour. We're all stable enough now to appreciate ourselves and each other and all the things everyone's been through that have brought us all to this point. And whatever happens with the band, it's not really about the band. I'm so glad I know these guys again. And in a way, I'm glad I didn't know them for a while, because if I had known them this whole time, we would have missed something along the way. I think we would have all brought each other down, instead of beign able to lift each other up like we do now. Anyway, I'm just glad that this has all happened, and that the situation has ended up as it has, that the lucky moments have lined themselves up in this freakish and unnatural turn of events.
I'm sure the Steelers feel the same way.
I know this entry has sounded like a bunch of melodramatic mumbo jumbo, but even Claire can get into the drama every now and then. Contrary to popular belief, I have the ability to be an emotional person, and it manifests itslef in strange ways at strange times I think. I don't know. I just feel good. I oughta write a song about it.
I think the band should change our name to "The Triforce."
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Roadside Rave
Well, this is it. The last entry before the big show tomorrow night. In a way I'm excited, but in a way I'm nervous as hell. I hope everything goes okay. I'm sure it will... I just hope the audience likes us. Yikes!
Fortunately I have some moral support - some very good friends will be in the audience cheering us on, even if we suck.
I don't know what else to say, it's been a boring day, yay, ole.
Fortunately I have some moral support - some very good friends will be in the audience cheering us on, even if we suck.
I don't know what else to say, it's been a boring day, yay, ole.
Monday, January 10, 2005
I've Been a Bad Bad Girl
I've been eating fatty foods
Hey, you'd do it too if you had the house to yourself. You would order yourself a pizza because you wouldn't have to comprimise with anyone else about toppings! Don't try to tell me you wouldn't, I know the truth. In fact, maybe I'll run around naked later. I bet you'd do that too.
I have "Sweet Home Alabama" stuck in my head. I have no idea why. I haven't heard it today, at least not to my knowledge. I think I'd remember hearing it... it's a good song. I guess I should just be grateful that it's not that Godforsaken "dollop of daisy" commercial that was on last year and would get stuck in your head for WEEKS. I shudder just thinking of it.
Well, here goes! Tonight was The Great Fall's last rehearsal before our show on Thursday. It went really well, so I'm pretty pumped. Naturally, my skin has freaked out and sprouted unheard of numbers of unsightly blemishes and pimples... why wouldn't it? I'm going to be seen in a public venue, singing in front of crowds! What a GREAT time to break out! Ugh.
Where the skies are so blue...
I think I have a mild case of narcolepsy. I swear. I've been having this weird experience lately where I'll be doing something, such as reading, working, or sitting here typing in my blog, when all of a sudden I HAVE TO GO TO SLEEP. LIKE, RIGHT NOW. It's the weirdest thing. It sucks. :( I got nine freakin' hours of sleep last night because at 9:30 I decided I needed to sleep, RIGHT THEN. It's weird.
I have donut holes upstairs. That just occurred to me.
Did I spell "occurred" right? I hope so.
I think I'm gonna check the Sunday paper to see if there are any jobs out there... real jobs, for which I'd be qualified. I can't imagine there are any jobs out there for a 22 year-old college grad (minus a pesky little piano credit... I really should fix that) who majored in music education... and does not actually want to teach music. Hmm. Could be problematic. I guess it couldn't hurt to shop around though. You never know what the paper might offer.
The Great Fall may make an appearance (soundwise, not visually) in an indie film! Woo! A guy we knew in high school is just finishing up his first indie film and he wants to use us for the closing credits. HOW HOT IS THAT! Not only that, but apparently the producer of the film liked us too, and wants to investigate some more into our sound and see if we could come up with maybe some other stuff for some other projects. Of course, I'm hearing this, like, 23rd hand, so I don't know if anything will ever come of it or not, but it's always nice to know that somebody who doesn't know any of the band members has heard the music and enjoys it. It's easy to enjoy music when you've written it... of course you love it then, you created it. It's like how some parents out there have the most obnoxious children in the world, but hey, they love them because they created them. I think that's how it works.
I always felt that way about Madam Malarky. I always thought I was a literary genius! But it was great when somebody else would say so. It was the best when I'd get letters from people I didn't know saying they liked the column or whatever. That was always nice.
Speaking of always nice, it's always nice to go upstairs and get in bed. Oh! I should do that!
Hey, you'd do it too if you had the house to yourself. You would order yourself a pizza because you wouldn't have to comprimise with anyone else about toppings! Don't try to tell me you wouldn't, I know the truth. In fact, maybe I'll run around naked later. I bet you'd do that too.
I have "Sweet Home Alabama" stuck in my head. I have no idea why. I haven't heard it today, at least not to my knowledge. I think I'd remember hearing it... it's a good song. I guess I should just be grateful that it's not that Godforsaken "dollop of daisy" commercial that was on last year and would get stuck in your head for WEEKS. I shudder just thinking of it.
Well, here goes! Tonight was The Great Fall's last rehearsal before our show on Thursday. It went really well, so I'm pretty pumped. Naturally, my skin has freaked out and sprouted unheard of numbers of unsightly blemishes and pimples... why wouldn't it? I'm going to be seen in a public venue, singing in front of crowds! What a GREAT time to break out! Ugh.
Where the skies are so blue...
I think I have a mild case of narcolepsy. I swear. I've been having this weird experience lately where I'll be doing something, such as reading, working, or sitting here typing in my blog, when all of a sudden I HAVE TO GO TO SLEEP. LIKE, RIGHT NOW. It's the weirdest thing. It sucks. :( I got nine freakin' hours of sleep last night because at 9:30 I decided I needed to sleep, RIGHT THEN. It's weird.
I have donut holes upstairs. That just occurred to me.
Did I spell "occurred" right? I hope so.
I think I'm gonna check the Sunday paper to see if there are any jobs out there... real jobs, for which I'd be qualified. I can't imagine there are any jobs out there for a 22 year-old college grad (minus a pesky little piano credit... I really should fix that) who majored in music education... and does not actually want to teach music. Hmm. Could be problematic. I guess it couldn't hurt to shop around though. You never know what the paper might offer.
The Great Fall may make an appearance (soundwise, not visually) in an indie film! Woo! A guy we knew in high school is just finishing up his first indie film and he wants to use us for the closing credits. HOW HOT IS THAT! Not only that, but apparently the producer of the film liked us too, and wants to investigate some more into our sound and see if we could come up with maybe some other stuff for some other projects. Of course, I'm hearing this, like, 23rd hand, so I don't know if anything will ever come of it or not, but it's always nice to know that somebody who doesn't know any of the band members has heard the music and enjoys it. It's easy to enjoy music when you've written it... of course you love it then, you created it. It's like how some parents out there have the most obnoxious children in the world, but hey, they love them because they created them. I think that's how it works.
I always felt that way about Madam Malarky. I always thought I was a literary genius! But it was great when somebody else would say so. It was the best when I'd get letters from people I didn't know saying they liked the column or whatever. That was always nice.
Speaking of always nice, it's always nice to go upstairs and get in bed. Oh! I should do that!
Sunday, January 09, 2005
Hero? Gyro? Wha?
And other word origins
Okay. I definitely just wrote up this entry... fortunately it wasn't a really long one... it was kinda short and very unimportant. Basically it just recounted my adventures at Dave and Buster's with Dave, Hannah (they were in Pittsburgh this weekend! Whee!) Sarah, and Josh. I discussed how I won a dragon and some glassware and ate some good food and had a grand time... it was much more elaborate than what I have just now described, but unfortunately, when I went to publish the entry, something weird happened... and I hit the wrong button because I'm tired and uncoordinated, and the whole entry got shipped off to east cyberspace, far far away from where it should be, which is on your computer screen.
Alas.
So anyway, I don't feel like re-explaining anything. I remember I used a lot of italics in the lost entry... so I should use those somewhere to try to capture the same effect. Did it work?
Probably not.
Okay. I'm tired. I hate to be boring, but I just wanted to check in and make sure that the world knew that I haven't forgotten about it. In fact, I am very well aware that I am living on it as we (I) speak (type.) So, hi world. I haven't forgotten you, and I promise I'll write something worthwhile sometime soon when I'm less tired and worried about my band which has a concert on Thursday that everyone should attend. Look ma! More italics!
ITALICS!
Okay. I definitely just wrote up this entry... fortunately it wasn't a really long one... it was kinda short and very unimportant. Basically it just recounted my adventures at Dave and Buster's with Dave, Hannah (they were in Pittsburgh this weekend! Whee!) Sarah, and Josh. I discussed how I won a dragon and some glassware and ate some good food and had a grand time... it was much more elaborate than what I have just now described, but unfortunately, when I went to publish the entry, something weird happened... and I hit the wrong button because I'm tired and uncoordinated, and the whole entry got shipped off to east cyberspace, far far away from where it should be, which is on your computer screen.
Alas.
So anyway, I don't feel like re-explaining anything. I remember I used a lot of italics in the lost entry... so I should use those somewhere to try to capture the same effect. Did it work?
Probably not.
Okay. I'm tired. I hate to be boring, but I just wanted to check in and make sure that the world knew that I haven't forgotten about it. In fact, I am very well aware that I am living on it as we (I) speak (type.) So, hi world. I haven't forgotten you, and I promise I'll write something worthwhile sometime soon when I'm less tired and worried about my band which has a concert on Thursday that everyone should attend. Look ma! More italics!
ITALICS!
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
A Downer Entry
You've been warned.
Okay! Finally I have something concrete to go on here, so I can stop typing fluff for a night and get what's really on my mind out into the world without fear of misinforming the Virtual Paper-reading public.
I don't really know entirely who reads this and who doesn't, and I figure that most or all of the people that read this already know all about this, but just in case, I can finally make a general announcement because I finally have some kind of answer to any questions that come my way.
My mother has colon cancer. She had it about three years ago, but they caught it early, she went in for a relatively simple surgery, they took care of it, and in no time she was back on her feet and back to normal.
This latest bout has been quite different. After tests, and more tests, and more tests, and false tests, and true tests, and meetings, and scans, and long nights of crying and soul searching and missing my father and trying to stay sane for my mother's sake, we finally got a good handle on the situation today, and it looks, for the most part, pretty good, considering that cancer sucks.
Her situation is considerably worse this time. In addition to surgery, she will also need chemotherapy and radiation, which she will start on Friday. The doctors all seem very optimistic that she'll make a full recovery, and be okay... eventually. It's going to be a long and painful few months though, and this is why I've been in my moody state, and this is why I've had to cancel so many plans as of late (is this turning into a poem??)
So, anyway, in closing, I may not be able to take road trips in the near future, and I may need to cancel plans on short notice, and things like that, and I just hope everyone can bear with me. All thoughts/prayers/etc. are greatly appreciated. I'd also like to pre-apologize for any moodiness that may come of all this. I'm not really sure what I'm in for here... I've never taken care of a cancer patient before, so we'll just have to see how this goes.
So, anyway, that's what's going on, and what has been going on.
Let's see... other things... I get to sing with the band in our first public venue on January 13. That's a week from tomorrow. I'm scared out of my mind, and it looks like none of my friends can come. :( This upsets me. Oh well, if it's humiliating at least only strangers will think I suck, and not acquaintances.
Nothing else to report really.
keep it real, home slices.
Okay! Finally I have something concrete to go on here, so I can stop typing fluff for a night and get what's really on my mind out into the world without fear of misinforming the Virtual Paper-reading public.
I don't really know entirely who reads this and who doesn't, and I figure that most or all of the people that read this already know all about this, but just in case, I can finally make a general announcement because I finally have some kind of answer to any questions that come my way.
My mother has colon cancer. She had it about three years ago, but they caught it early, she went in for a relatively simple surgery, they took care of it, and in no time she was back on her feet and back to normal.
This latest bout has been quite different. After tests, and more tests, and more tests, and false tests, and true tests, and meetings, and scans, and long nights of crying and soul searching and missing my father and trying to stay sane for my mother's sake, we finally got a good handle on the situation today, and it looks, for the most part, pretty good, considering that cancer sucks.
Her situation is considerably worse this time. In addition to surgery, she will also need chemotherapy and radiation, which she will start on Friday. The doctors all seem very optimistic that she'll make a full recovery, and be okay... eventually. It's going to be a long and painful few months though, and this is why I've been in my moody state, and this is why I've had to cancel so many plans as of late (is this turning into a poem??)
So, anyway, in closing, I may not be able to take road trips in the near future, and I may need to cancel plans on short notice, and things like that, and I just hope everyone can bear with me. All thoughts/prayers/etc. are greatly appreciated. I'd also like to pre-apologize for any moodiness that may come of all this. I'm not really sure what I'm in for here... I've never taken care of a cancer patient before, so we'll just have to see how this goes.
So, anyway, that's what's going on, and what has been going on.
Let's see... other things... I get to sing with the band in our first public venue on January 13. That's a week from tomorrow. I'm scared out of my mind, and it looks like none of my friends can come. :( This upsets me. Oh well, if it's humiliating at least only strangers will think I suck, and not acquaintances.
Nothing else to report really.
keep it real, home slices.
Twitching for Fun
Brilliant!
It's been a while, I know. I'd apologize, but I feel I don't have to. Why? No reason.
I have lots of things to talk about. I don't know where to start. And for some reason, I'm having trouble typing today. I wouldn't be surprised if I got frustrated tonight and quit mid-entry out of sheer frustration. If I disappear, it's a safe bet that that's what happened.
New Years: I wanted to spend New Years with people that matter. I guess in a way I did, but in a way I didn't, as I could have spent it with people that mattered more than some drunk strangers. I'll admit though, that the drunk strangers were quite entertaining. And besides, most people didn't make $100 on New Years. I did. Being the pregnant bridesmaid in Joey and Maria's was interesting. I was afraid that I'd have trouble keeping in character and keeping the accent up for three hours. I was also afraid that I'd run out of funny things to say. Fortunately none of those things happened. It was very strange the way it worked.
For one thing, once I put the dress on and started working the accent, I really really got into it. I really kinda forgot who Claire Whaley was, and was much more concerned with the life of Louisa, the pregnant bridesmaid. I had no trouble coming up with my life story, and answering people's questiones about my personal life when they asked them. The most common question from the audience was who was the father of my baby. That was always a fun one to tackle. Although, as the night wore on and the audience caught on to the fact that I didn't know who the father was, everyone began implying that I was a big slut. Now, I understand that Louisa is a big slut, thus the humor. However, when you've invested several hours into a character and people call her a whore, you get really offended. I felt very bad for Louisa. I started to get really offended when people would imply that I was cheap and easy. It was all a very strange experience.
Other than that, the show went very well, despite a minor mishap (and minor can be used in several ways in this context) when a kid of about 8 years old caught the garter, and the cast had to fudge what normally happens (which is that he who catches the garter puts it on the bouquet-catcher's leg... blindfolded... with his teeth.) Who brings their kids to a show like this? I don't know. But I hope his parents learned their lesson.
After the show I went to Sarah's friend's party, which was fun. I drank a lot of champagne and left some fun voice mails on random people's cell phones. Always a good time.
Anywho, the next day I drove up to Chautauqua, NY to spend some time with some family who was in from out of town. My cousins and I always have a blast together, and this visit was no exception. We goofed around and had a blast and ate lots of food, and then on Sunday took a trip to Buffalo to see THE STEELER GAME!
Obviously the Steeler game was a huge success. I don't think anybody was really putting money on the Steelers to win this one, but somehow they managed to do so anyway. It was great. As the game went on, they took out more and more of our key guys and started putting in the second and third string guys. I think eventually they put in the Steelers janitor, Mario Lemieux, and a couple random fans from the stands. (I think some were even Bills fans.) Ed McMahon ran for a touchdown. It was madness.
It was so satisfying to see guys nobody had ever heard of whoop Buffalo's best players. Other good factors included the weather (You'd think in Buffalo in January you'd need hardcore insulation, but it was probably in the 40's) and the number of Steeler fans in the stands. Everyone thought that because this game didn't matter at all to the Steelers, and it was the Bills' chance for the playoffs, the Bills fans would be out in full force and the Steelers fans would be at home wearing their gear and watching it on tv, but this was not the case.
So despite getting stuck in the mud while parking on some angry Bills fan's yard (who charged us $10 and then got mad that we left tire marks) and getting back late at night, the weekend and the game were successful.
When I got home, I found Josh sacked out on the couch. He was passing through Pittsburgh on his way back to Cincy from the boys' New Years party. So he and I stayed up pretty late being silly, and I was exhausted at work yesterday. It was all good though, I needed to spend some quality time with him and the family and the Steelers, so I wouldn't have traded my awake time for anything.
I had other things I wanted to discuss tonight, but I feel I've written quite enough. I think it's time for me to snuggle up in bed and read or something. I haven't done that in a long time, and Dave Barry has a book out that I haven't read that I need to consult.
Dave Barry is one funny mothafucka.
It's been a while, I know. I'd apologize, but I feel I don't have to. Why? No reason.
I have lots of things to talk about. I don't know where to start. And for some reason, I'm having trouble typing today. I wouldn't be surprised if I got frustrated tonight and quit mid-entry out of sheer frustration. If I disappear, it's a safe bet that that's what happened.
New Years: I wanted to spend New Years with people that matter. I guess in a way I did, but in a way I didn't, as I could have spent it with people that mattered more than some drunk strangers. I'll admit though, that the drunk strangers were quite entertaining. And besides, most people didn't make $100 on New Years. I did. Being the pregnant bridesmaid in Joey and Maria's was interesting. I was afraid that I'd have trouble keeping in character and keeping the accent up for three hours. I was also afraid that I'd run out of funny things to say. Fortunately none of those things happened. It was very strange the way it worked.
For one thing, once I put the dress on and started working the accent, I really really got into it. I really kinda forgot who Claire Whaley was, and was much more concerned with the life of Louisa, the pregnant bridesmaid. I had no trouble coming up with my life story, and answering people's questiones about my personal life when they asked them. The most common question from the audience was who was the father of my baby. That was always a fun one to tackle. Although, as the night wore on and the audience caught on to the fact that I didn't know who the father was, everyone began implying that I was a big slut. Now, I understand that Louisa is a big slut, thus the humor. However, when you've invested several hours into a character and people call her a whore, you get really offended. I felt very bad for Louisa. I started to get really offended when people would imply that I was cheap and easy. It was all a very strange experience.
Other than that, the show went very well, despite a minor mishap (and minor can be used in several ways in this context) when a kid of about 8 years old caught the garter, and the cast had to fudge what normally happens (which is that he who catches the garter puts it on the bouquet-catcher's leg... blindfolded... with his teeth.) Who brings their kids to a show like this? I don't know. But I hope his parents learned their lesson.
After the show I went to Sarah's friend's party, which was fun. I drank a lot of champagne and left some fun voice mails on random people's cell phones. Always a good time.
Anywho, the next day I drove up to Chautauqua, NY to spend some time with some family who was in from out of town. My cousins and I always have a blast together, and this visit was no exception. We goofed around and had a blast and ate lots of food, and then on Sunday took a trip to Buffalo to see THE STEELER GAME!
Obviously the Steeler game was a huge success. I don't think anybody was really putting money on the Steelers to win this one, but somehow they managed to do so anyway. It was great. As the game went on, they took out more and more of our key guys and started putting in the second and third string guys. I think eventually they put in the Steelers janitor, Mario Lemieux, and a couple random fans from the stands. (I think some were even Bills fans.) Ed McMahon ran for a touchdown. It was madness.
It was so satisfying to see guys nobody had ever heard of whoop Buffalo's best players. Other good factors included the weather (You'd think in Buffalo in January you'd need hardcore insulation, but it was probably in the 40's) and the number of Steeler fans in the stands. Everyone thought that because this game didn't matter at all to the Steelers, and it was the Bills' chance for the playoffs, the Bills fans would be out in full force and the Steelers fans would be at home wearing their gear and watching it on tv, but this was not the case.
So despite getting stuck in the mud while parking on some angry Bills fan's yard (who charged us $10 and then got mad that we left tire marks) and getting back late at night, the weekend and the game were successful.
When I got home, I found Josh sacked out on the couch. He was passing through Pittsburgh on his way back to Cincy from the boys' New Years party. So he and I stayed up pretty late being silly, and I was exhausted at work yesterday. It was all good though, I needed to spend some quality time with him and the family and the Steelers, so I wouldn't have traded my awake time for anything.
I had other things I wanted to discuss tonight, but I feel I've written quite enough. I think it's time for me to snuggle up in bed and read or something. I haven't done that in a long time, and Dave Barry has a book out that I haven't read that I need to consult.
Dave Barry is one funny mothafucka.
